Schola Cantorum
Stellenbosch University’s Academic Residential Choir
Who We Are
Schola Cantorum is the esteemed academic residential choir of Stellenbosch University’s Music Department, under the dedicated leadership of internationally acclaimed conductor Dr. Martin Berger. Composed of passionate adult singers ranging from professionals to retirees, Schola Cantorum is a vibrant and committed ensemble that combines artistic excellence with a deep love for choral music. Our choir serves as a musical community where members not only perform but also grow as musicians, sharing a unique space for learning, collaboration, and creative expression.
Our Purpose
Schola Cantorum is more than just a choir; it is a living instrument and a central pillar of Stellenbosch University’s Choral Conducting Division. The choir provides an essential platform for training the next generation of choral conductors by offering hands-on, practical experience in rehearsal leadership, interpretation, and performance. As the primary training choir for conducting students, Schola Cantorum rehearses and performs a diverse and challenging repertoire throughout the academic year. This gives students real-world opportunities to develop their conducting skills under expert mentorship, while choir members experience some of the most profound works of the choral tradition.
Our Musical Focus
Each year, Schola Cantorum undertakes the study and performance of two major choral masterworks, typically presented in concerts held in March and September. Our repertoire spans a broad spectrum of Western classical music and beyond, reflecting our commitment to preserving great choral traditions while inspiring artistic growth among our singers and conductors.
Our Educational Role
Schola Cantorum is integral to the education of Stellenbosch University’s choral conducting students. By rehearsing regularly with the choir, students develop essential skills in score study and reduction, rehearsal technique, leadership and communication, and artistic interpretation. Conducting students gain invaluable experience leading a high-calibre choir in preparation for exams, performances, and their future professional careers. This immersive learning environment ensures that graduates are well equipped to become sensitive, skilled, and confident choral leaders.
Our Community and Values
Beyond music, Schola Cantorum fosters a warm, supportive community of singers and students who share a passion for choral singing and musical excellence. The choir emphasizes artistic integrity, mutual respect, collaboration and inclusivity, and lifelong learning and mentorship. Our members frequently describe Schola Cantorum as a “musical home,” where friendships flourish alongside artistic achievements.
Leadership
Dr. Martin Berger, a conductor with international acclaim and extensive teaching experience, leads Schola Cantorum. His holistic approach to music-making and pedagogy combines technical rigor with artistic freedom, inspiring singers and conductors alike to reach their highest potential.
In Summary
Schola Cantorum is a unique and vital institution within Stellenbosch University and the broader South African choral landscape. It is a place where the art of choral singing meets rigorous academic training, producing exceptional musicians and conductors who will carry forward the rich tradition of choral music.
